DIY: Replacing the Kitchen Sink Strainer and Bowl

by bog bit

The strainer and bowl in a kitchen sink is independent from the standard stainless steel variety you will find in most kitchens. This makes it easy to remove the kitchen sink strainer and bowl in case it is damaged or discolored. Even if you have little knowledge of plumbing, detaching the trap underneath the sink and replacing the bowl is a straightforward process.

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the kitchen sink faucet by twisting the knobs underneath the sink counterclockwise. There should be two knobs: one for hot water and one for cold water. To locate the water supply, trace the pipes that lead into the faucet until you locate the shut off valve.

Step 2: Clean the sink and remove any debris that may be in the kitchen sink bowl. If the sink strainer is not attached to the bowl, remove it as well.

Step 3: Place a bucket underneath the P trap to catch any water and debris present in the pipe.

Step 4: Loosen the couplings that are holding the P trap to the rest of the plumbing using an adjustable wrench. Remove the P trap and empty its contents into the bucket: the trap will have some water in it.

Step 5: Use the adjustable wrench to remove the tail piece. This is the piece that is located between the sink strainer and bowl and the P trap. Also remove the nut that is holding the sink bowl into place.

Step 6: Using a block of wood to cushion the blows, use a hammer to tap the sink bowl until it rises up out of the kitchen sink.

Step 7: Remove any remnants of putty or plumber’s caulk around the sink. Clean the hole left by the sink strainer and bowl thoroughly.

Step 8: Place the new sink bowl upside down on the counter. On the underside lip of the bowl (the area that will attach to the kitchen sink), place a generous bead of silicone caulk.

Step 9: Carefully pick up the sink bowl and place it in the hole in the kitchen sink. Twist the sink bowl slightly while slipping it into place.

Step 10: Place plumber’s tape around the threads at the bottom of the bowl. Place the washers on the bottom of the bowl, then screw on the nut to secure the sink bowl. Attach the sink strainer, or put it into place at this time.

Step 11: Attach the tailpiece and P trap, using new plumber’s tape to secure the connections. Tighten them securely with the adjustable wrench.

Step 12: Turn on the water shut off valves by turning counterclockwise. Turn on the tap, then check for leaks. Once you are sure there are no leaks to be found, turn off the tap and remove the bucket.

TIP: If you do find leaks, try giving the coupling an extra turn. If that does not work, detach the pipe from the coupling, clean both sets of threads thoroughly, then add more plumber’s tape and try again.